Why Is BTS' Comeback Album Called Arirang?

BTS

has seemingly been teasing the title of their comeback album for almost a decade, something that ARMYs began guessing after the K-pop legends revealed on January 15, that their new work is called 'Arirang'. Though the announcement by BigHit Music set the internet ablaze, crashing social networking sites and soaring on trends, many settled down to understand why Jin, J-Hope, Suga, RM, Jimin, V and Jungkook picked the particular term to name their fifth album. While anyone could guess that the word is Korean, its deep meaning came to the fore, revealing how it represents the big moment for both BTS and K-pop.

History of 'Arirang'

For the unversed, Arirang is an iconic Korean lyrical folk song with a deep-rooted meaning in the country's history. Infact, many call it the unofficial anthem, as it represents the core of Korean heritage.

The word and song date back centuries and have existed even before K-pop came into existence. It is a cultural symbol embodying themes of joy, sorrow, and perseverance through its countless variations and communal creation. So, for Koreans, it represents their identity.Arirang fosters creativity, freedom of expression, and community. The folk item also finds acknowledgement by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Despite political division, both North and South Korea recognise Arirang, making it a powerful symbol of shared national identity and cultural bond. And through this, BTS is claiming their lineage while saying that their music comes from history.

Reason behind BTS naming new album 'Arirang'

Along with the title reveal, BTS also announced the vinyl versions for each member, naming them "rooted in Korea," "rooted in music," "living legend," and so on. And this resonates with the true meaning of Arirang, which talks about grief, loss, love, survival, and separation. So, if BTS names the album this, it clearly suggests the band's beautiful message to ARMY after the separation due to their mandatory military term and the hiatus the members had to take from music and their fandom.

Did BTS tease Arirang 10 years ago?

Interestingly, BTS had performed the Arirang Medley a decade ago, paying tribute to their cultural symbol at KCON 2016 in Paris. The act turned a precious piece, getting referred by broadcasting companies to depict Korean culture and music, until this day.Arirang is set to release on March 20, 2026, marking the big comeback of BTS with new music.